Cynthia Holiday

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One of the most exciting and essential elements in the world of jazz is the sense of discovery. A music such as this thrives on performers who appear on the scene to provide a singular presence that is revealed to a public that loves to see, hear, and appreciate something fresh and new. With jazz vocalists, it can be particularly rewarding. The human voice connects in a way that, emotionally, is unique; together with style, delivery, phrasing, and natural appeal, it can touch an audience in a very special way. This is between you and me, a vocalist seems to say, let me tell you what’s on my mind. Communication. Style. Personality. And, of course, talent. It is all a part of the package that is Ms. Cynthia Holiday. Every musician has his or her own story, and Cynthia Holiday is no different. Her musical journey is one of dogged determination and perserverance, based upon a love of music, and a desire to perform. A native of Newark, New Jersey, Cynthia Holiday was always exposed to the Arts. Her first experience on stage came via dance. She studied as a young girl, and dance was a part of her life continually throughout her college days. This early experience on stage would turn out to be quite valuable, because it was at this time that Cynthia realized the pull of performance. Dance notwithstanding, however, it was music that was the arts foundation of her household. Cynthia’s stepfather was Calvin Hughes, a trumpet player of considerable renown who was one of the most popular and talented musicans in the New Jersey and Tri-State area. Hughes had a magnetic personality, a tireless work ethic, and played or toured with the likes of jazz greats like Clark Terry and Count Basie, and blueswoman Big Maybelle. Hughes led his own band, Calvin Hughes And The Swingin’ Jets, and young Cynthia was immersed in his jazz world. Musicans were always coming by the house to play, and she was particularly impressed with the discipline and attention to detail the musicians displayed. Holiday’s mother helped provide the vocal inspiration in her life. My mother and aunt were singers; they were members of The Metropolitan Baptist Church in Newark Holiday relates. She was a fan of Dakota Staton, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Joe Williams, all the greats. They were who I was listening to. Also a part of Cynthia’s musical exposure was the Blues. The music was an important part of her listening experience. My grandfather used to play blues records for me, Cynthia says. He’d even teach me songs. My style is heavily influenced by the blues, because I love it so much.? Eventually, her father introduced her to keyboardist Radam Schwartz, with whom she began to intensively study to cultivate her sound and approach as a singer. And it has all come together; her exposure throughout her life to jazz, blues and r&b, together with the various musical experiences that she has accumulated have resulted in the smooth, engaging, yet vibrant style that Cynthia Holiday has today. And there is no better example of that style than her new recording CYNTHIA HOLIDAY: ALL THE WAY. It’s bluesy, sassy, yet tender and introspective, with a healthy dose of swing. Cynthia showcases her versatility and confidence on the CD with a program that includes familiar standards, contemporary classics, and entertaining originals. “Never Make Your Move Too Soon”, written by Stix Hooper of Crusaders fame, opens the recording, and immediately lets you know that you are in for a lively, good time. Throughout, Ms. Holiday covers a wide spectrum of selections with ease. There’s a wonderful brisk interpretation of “I Thought About You”, the groove of “More Today Than Yesterday”, and a warm emotional reading of the title track. Cynthia Holiday signs deal with Miles High Records. We at Miles High Records are very excited about Cynthia Holiday’s new release entitled “All The Way” featuring Cynthia with the Cedar Walton Trio as well as her longtime musical director Radam Schwartz. Release date was May 20 2008?